4 fatalities

Aircraft crash in Salavan province during supply mission (401)

Salavan, LaosFlight

On November 23, 1972, a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou (registration 401) operated by Air America was involved in an aviation accident near Salavan, Laos in flight. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by ground-based fire during a low-altitude mission. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

A transport aircraft crashed in the Salavan region after being struck by ground-based fire during a low-altitude supply flight.

What happened

During a logistics operation originating from Pakse, an aircraft was performing a supply mission at a low altitude. While traversing the airspace near the Salavan region, the plane was hit by projectiles from ground-based weaponry. The impact resulted in the aircraft catching fire and crashing.

There were four fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft during the incident. No survivors were reported from the crew or passengers on board.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor leading to the destruction of the aircraft was ground fire hitting the plane while it was in flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by ground-based fire during a low-altitude mission.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Nov 1972 De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou accident near Salavan, Laos?

A transport aircraft crashed in the Salavan region after being struck by ground-based fire during a low-altitude supply flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Nov 1972 De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Nov 1972 involved a De Havilland DHC-4 Caribou, registration 401, operated by Air America, at Salavan, Laos.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft was destroyed after being struck by ground-based fire during a low-altitude mission.